The Imagi Meira has lambasted Manipur Governor Anusuiya Uikey, Chief Minister N Biren Singh and other representatives of the state cabinet for neglecting the Jiribam issue and giving importance to the celebration of Modi’s victory.
Talking to the media at the Manipur Press Club in Imphal, Imagi Meira convenor Thokchom Sujata said that the violence in Jiribam has been attributed to inadequate security measures by the state government.
The press conference was attended by leaders of AMKIL and Women Committee of Delhi Manipur Coordinating Committee.
Stating that the Indian Army was sent by the Central government for protection, Sujata questioned why security forces are removing villagers instead of protecting them in their own villages at Jiribam. It is a clear-cut sign of partiality and supporting the Kukis by removing villagers and letting the Kukis burn houses.
Sujata criticised the Biren-led government for giving more importance to the celebration of Modi’s victory rather than addressing the state issue where Jiribam is burning. She said that the chief minister, including the Governor of Manipur and some political representatives of the state government went to Delhi for celebration while the state is burning. Is it the way of loving the motherland and protecting people, she questioned.
“Attending Modi’s victory celebration is not more important than violence in Jiribam. So, come out as soon as possible”, she told the CM.
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All mothers are waiting for you to discuss the matter, she said, adding that this is not a time for celebration.
She also reminded that many persons including representatives of civil society organisations have been demanding to meet the prime minister since last year when conflict began. However, till today the Prime Minister has not given the time to meet him, she added and questioned why they went for celebration.
“They should have stood against celebration and said that the people are facing problems, that the state is burning and should have not joined the celebration. Instead, they went and celebrated, which means that the state government allows the killing of Meitei”, Sujata said.
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“How far will we risk our lives? Do they want Imphal to be occupied and everyone killed? Why is the government not hearing people’s voice and pressuring the Central government?”, asked Sujata.
She urged the people of all communities to join hands in protecting the state and appealed to the people of Jiribam not to run from their own villages or that they would be occupied.
Sujata then called on CM Biren to return as soon as possible to take immediate action and restore peace within the next 15 days to prevent further escalation.
